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Spinal health is vital when it comes to our overall health and wellness. Our spine connects numerous ligaments, muscles, and nerves throughout our entire body. It allows us to bend, twist and move around freely. From wiggling our fingers, to turning our head, to shaking our hips, every movement we take comes from our spine. It protects our nervous system, sending and receiving signals down our spine to areas that feel sensation. Our spine provides us with independence to move around and go about our day-to-day lives.

Suffering from a spinal injury or back pain can be debilitating. By following preventative measures now, we can keep our spine happy and healthy as we age. These simple guidelines will help you maintain a healthy spine so you can feel your best and live well.

Practice proper posture. Be mindful of your posture at all times. Whether you are sitting on the couch, in your car, or you are at the office, it is important your spine is always properly aligned. Poor posture can lead to chronic neck and back pain, headaches, or muscle fatigue. Back cushions and ergonomic seat cushions can provide the extra support you need wherever you are.

Exercise without overdoing it. A regular exercise routine will keep your muscles strong and flexible, improve circulation, and keep excess weight gain at bay. However, it is important to listen to your body. Repetitive movements and overexertion can cause sprains and muscle strains.

Consider investing in a new mattress or pillow. A quality mattress and pillow will protect and support your spine throughout the night.

Evaluate your sleep position. Your preferred sleep position may be causing more harm than good. Take a look at how these sleep positions can provide lasting comfort and relief.

Avoid lifting objects heavier than 25% of your own body weight. Ask for help when possible or use tools that can assist in lifting heavy objects to avoid straining back muscles.

Strengthen core muscles. Incorporate targeted exercises such as aerobics, core work, and stretching into your exercise routine. A strong core will support your spine while taking pressure off of your lower back.

Make time to relax. Take a warm bath, sink into a massage chair, or use a handheld massager to loosen tight muscles in your neck, back, or entire body.

Visit your local Relax The Back store for more information on how you can improve your spinal health. Our trained associates will work with you one-on-one to find a product or solution that works best for your specific needs.

Take a moment to notice your current posture. Are you slouching or hunching over your keyboard? While at work, you may not realize you’re slipping into these poor postures. Creating a health, comfortable workspace doesn’t stop with ergonomic office products. Your posture also plays a role in your overall health.

Poor posture can lead to a number of health concerns including chronic neck and back pain, headaches, and muscle fatigue. Proper posture allows our bodies to be aligned in a neutral position, which is the body’s most natural position. Working towards maintaining this posture throughout the workday can help reduce strains and stress on your tendons, muscles, and spine.

Spot the signs of poor posture and ways you can work on it in the helpful infographic below. If you’re looking to create an ergonomic, spine-friendly workspace, visit your local Relax The Back store to speak with one of our trained specialists and receive an in-person workstation assessment. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more ergonomic tips and pain-relief solutions.